Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach

Name: Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food

I’ve always loved a hearty meatloaf, but adding fresh herbs and spinach takes it to a whole new level. This Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach is not only flavorful but also a great way to sneak some greens into a classic dish. The combination of ground meat, herbs, and the subtle earthiness of spinach creates a deliciously moist loaf that my family just can’t get enough of. Whether it’s a comforting family dinner or a meal prep staple, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-23T23:13:28.167Z

When I first decided to add spinach to my traditional meatloaf recipe, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. However, after a few adjustments to the herb balance and ensuring the spinach was well-drained, I was thrilled with the results! The spinach not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist, which is essential for this dish.

This has quickly become a staple in our household. I've found that serving it with a side of mashed potatoes and a simple salad creates a balanced meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Plus, leftovers make fantastic sandwiches!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh herb flavor and nutrients from spinach
Moist and tender texture that’s hard to resist
Easy to prepare and great for meal prepping

The Role of Herbs and Spinach

In this Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach, fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary are not only for flavor; they also enhance the dish's aroma and elevate the overall eating experience. The herbs’ vibrant notes contrast beautifully with the savory meat, adding complexity. Additionally, fresh spinach introduces not just color but moisture, ensuring the meatloaf stays tender. This is particularly important when using lean meats that might otherwise dry out during cooking.

When preparing the herbs, be sure to chop them finely to release their essential oils and maximize their flavor impact. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, dried versions can be used; however, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount. Mixing spinach into the meatloaf is a clever way to incorporate greens; this dish becomes a hidden way to boost nutrition without sacrificing taste or texture.

Perfecting Your Meatloaf Technique

Achieving the ideal meatloaf texture is all about the mixing technique. Gently combining your ingredients is vital to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Use your hands to integrate the mixture, ensuring an even distribution without excessive kneading. If you find the mixture too wet, a little more breadcrumbs can help absorb extra moisture, but be cautious—it's better to start with less and add gradually.

A key tip for shaping your meatloaf is to avoid compacting it too much in the loaf pan. Gently form the meat into an even shape so it retains some air, which contributes to a light texture. When baking, check for doneness at around 50 minutes—using a meat thermometer inserted into the center can help; you're looking for that safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), and the loaf should be pulling away slightly from the sides of the pan.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your meatloaf is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container before refrigerating. Properly stored, it can last for up to four days. For longer storage, consider slicing it and freezing individual portions. Just ensure you wrap each slice tightly to minimize freezer burn, and it should keep well for up to three months.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best texture. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the slices for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re pressed for time, microwaving is fine—just be sure to cover the meatloaf with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables is a great way to balance out the richness of the meatloaf with fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Make sure all ingredients are well mixed before forming the loaf.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped spinach, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

Form the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread ketchup on top as a glaze.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Cool and Serve

Let the meatloaf cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or swapping out herbs based on what you have on hand.

Flavor Variations

This Herbed Meatloaf with Spinach is quite versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavor profiles. Consider adding grated cheese to the mix, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, for a rich, cheesy twist. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a chopped jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce can bring a welcome kick to each bite.

Another delightful variation involves swapping out the ground meats. Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the herbs and seasonings accordingly since these leaner meats can benefit from a bit more flavor. Additionally, if you have leftover cooked vegetables, feel free to incorporate them into the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice your meatloaf comes out too dry, it could be due to overcooking or using lean cuts of meat without enough added moisture. To fix this next time, ensure you’re using a combination that includes a little fat, such as ground pork or a fatty beef blend. Adding a splash of beef broth or a bit more spinach might also help retain moisture during cooking.

On the other hand, if your meatloaf is greasy or falling apart, it may be the result of too much fat or a lack of binders. Ensure you’re incorporating enough breadcrumbs, and consider using slightly less ground pork to find that perfect balance. Reshape and re-bake the meatloaf if necessary; it can often tighten up as it cooks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only beef for the meatloaf?

Yes, you can use just ground beef if you prefer.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots and bell peppers finely chopped would work great.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.